Summary Information
Oral History Interview with Laurie E. Carlson
1979
- Carlson, Laurie E., 1908-
Tape 781A
6 tape recordings
Wisconsin Historical Society (Map)
Interview conducted by Robert F. Burk of the Historical Society staff with Laurie Carlson concerning Carlson's youth in Bayfield County, Wis., his role in Progressive Party organization including evaluations of prominent Progressives, his service as Assemblyman from Bayfield County, his warehouse and curling business interests, and reminiscences of Robert La Follette, Jr., Philip La Follette, and Belle Case La Follette, William T. Evjue, and Joseph McCarthy.
English
http://digital.library.wisc.edu/1711.dl/wiarchives.uw-whs-tape00781a ↑ Bookmark this ↑
Biography/History
Laurie Carlson, state legislator, Progressive Party organizer, and businessman, was born on a farm near the Lake Superior fishing port of Bayfield, Wisconsin on January 12, 1908. His father, an active supporter of Robert M. La Follette, Sr., introduced Laurie to Progressive politics, and in 1924 the young Carlson defended La Follette in a high school speech which he credits with stimulating his interest in a political career. After graduating from Northland College, Carlson attended the University of Wisconsin in Madison and Superior State University. As a dairy and fruit farmer, Carlson initiated action in 1932 to secure experimental farm plots in Bayfield County. In 1934, he was one of the principal organizers of the Progressive Party in Bayfield County and served as secretary of the Bayfield County Progressive Club. In his second attempt at election to the Assembly in 1936, Carlson was successful and served in the state legislature until his defeat in 1942. Carlson's legislative career featured support for greater state aid to education, better roads in northern Wisconsin, and reducing the tax burden on rural residents, although he was best known for his initiatives in rural adult educational and vocational training.
After leaving the legislature, Carlson taught physical education and coached at Superior East High School and Ericcson Junior High School. In 1946, he joined the sales staff of radio station WSBR in Duluth-Superior, and in 1948 he assumed a sales position with WIBA in Madison, a post he held until 1967. In 1968 Carlson successfully ran for Clerk of Circuit Court of Dane County, and he served in that office until 1977. Carlson's business interests include part ownership of Mutual Enterprises, Inc., a warehouse corporation; Laurie Carlson and Son, seller of curling stones and other curling products; and national promotion of curling.
Scope and Content Note
Interview
Following the donation of a clipping scrapbook by Mr. Carlson to the State Historical Society and a suggestion by John K. Kyle, Progressive Party leader, that the Society consider him as an interview subject, oral history coordinator Dale Treleven and Robert F. Burk visited Laurie Carlson at his home at 1107 South Division Street, Waunakee, Wisconsin. Their discussions with Mr. Carlson and his wife, Helen (Whipple) Carlson, in November 1979, lasting 2 1/2 hours, indicated that Mr. Carlson possessed many valuable insights into the personalities and issues of state politics in the 1930's and 1940's. After Mr. Carlson readily agreed to participate in taping sessions, Burk provided him with an outline of topics and questions to be discussed during the interview. The interview was taped in two sessions, on November 29, 1979 (Tapes 1-3) and December 13, 1979 (Tapes 4-6), in the Sellery Room of the State Historical Society of Wisconsin.
The first session, which began at 9:30 a.m. and lasted 2 1/2 hours, included discussions of Mr. Carlson's parents, his introduction to politics, his role in Progressive Party organization, his campaigns, and his legislative career. At one point, the interview was interrupted by sirens from emergency vehicles on the street outside. The second interview session on December 13 was less tightly structured than the first. Because the discussions focused on Mr. Carlson's career after his service in the legislature, less extensive background research could be performed, and Burk felt that allowing Mr. Carlson to respond to more “open-ended” questions would permit freer recollections of events and issues. The second taping session includes discussions about Mr. Carlson's warehouse and curling interests and his career at WIBA, as well as supplementary observations to the first session on the defeat of Philip F. La Follette in the 1938 gubernatorial election. Of special note are Mr. Carlson's recollections and evaluations of Philip F. La Follette, Robert M. La Follette, Jr., and William T. Evjue, publisher of the Capital Times. The second taping session began at 9:30 a.m. and lasted 2 1/2 hours.
Abstract to the Interview
The tapes for this interview have two tracks: a voice track containing the discussion, and a time track containing time announcements at intervals of approximately five seconds. The contents list indicates in order of discussion the topics covered on each tape, and indicates the time-marking at which point the beginning of the particular discussion appears.
Thus, the researcher, by using a tape recorder's fast-forward button, may find and listen to discrete segments without listening to all of the taped discussion. For instance, the user who wishes to listen to the topic on “Carlson's College Years” should locate the place on the second track of tape one, side one, where the voice announces the 05:20 time-marking (the voice says “five minutes, twenty seconds”), and at this point switch to the first track to hear the discussion. The discussion on “Carlson's College Years” continues until approximately 11:30, at which point discussion of the next topic (“Formation of Progressive Party in 1934”) begins.
Notice that in most cases further explanation of the contents of each topic are given within the contents list. For example, the sentences underneath “Carlson's College Years” give further details on what appears on the tape between 05:20 and 11:30.
The abstract is designed to provide only a brief outline of the content of the tapes and cannot serve as a substitute for listening to them. However, when used with the index, the abstract will help the researcher to easily locate distinct topics and discussion among the many minutes of commentary.
Index to the Interview
The index, which is keyed to the same time announcement track (second track) as the contents list, gives a single alphabetical listing of proper nouns (persons, places, groups, organizations, books, periodicals), distinct historical phenomena (World War II), and concepts and activities (banking regulation, elections, labor, taxation) which appear on the tape/in the contents list. Each entry is followed by one or more citations specifying the location(s) where the entry appears. For instance, Alfonsi, Paul is followed by the citation 4/1, 13:45. This indicates that a reference to Paul Alfonsi appears on Tape 4, Side 1, within the time-marking beginning at 13:45 of the time announcement. The index includes cross-references but no subheadings except where there are a considerable number of entries for a heading that may be easily divided.
Related Material
Papers of Laurie Carlson, including speeches, radio addresses, and a clipping scrapbook among other things, are found under call number Micro 973.
Administrative/Restriction Information
Accession Number: M79-533, M79-562
Finding aid prepared by Robert F. Burk, 1982.
Contents List
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November 29, 1979 Interview Session
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Tape/Side
1/1
Time
00:00
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Introduction
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Tape/Side
1/1
Time
00:10
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Carlson's Parents' Occupations, Political Leanings
: Father farmed, loaded lumber on lake steamers, was active in organizing longshoremen's union, worked at logging camps. Father an early supporter of Robert M. La Follette, Sr.; received La Follette's Weekly Magazine.
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Tape/Side
1/1
Time
02:25
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Laurie Carlson's Introduction to Politics
: 1922 meeting with Robert M. La Follette, Sr. Anecdote of 1924 Carlson speech to predominantly Stalwart Republican Bayfield high school classmates. Story of 1924 political discussions with Congressman H. H. Peavey's son.
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Tape/Side
1/1
Time
05:20
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Carlson's College Years
: Recalls political discussions with socialists, communists. Political interest rose in 1934, prompted by concern with vocational education. Earned money at University of Wisconsin as driver, sandwich vendor. A “pathological Progressive,” Carlson attended legislative sessions.
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Tape/Side
1/1
Time
11:30
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Formation of Progressive Party in 1934
: Progressives followed lead of La Follettes. Hoover unpopularity had discredited Republican Party, Democrats too conservative. Progressives forged coalitions with Democrats. Carlson supported third party decision. Franklin D. Roosevelt aided Senator Robert M. La Follette, Jr.
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Tape/Side
1/1
Time
14:45
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Progressive Party Organization in Bayfield County
: Incumbent Assemblyman ran for district attorney, Carlson became Assembly candidate. Carlson organized Progressives; a limited candidate slate. County meetings held with Carlson as party spokesman.
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Tape/Side
1/1
Time
19:15
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Relations Between State and County Progressives
: Little initial assistance, three appearances in Bayfield County in 1934 by Senator La Follette. Philip La Follette narrowly won gubernatorial race, Robert M. La Follette, Jr., won U.S. Senate race easily.
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Tape/Side
1/1
Time
21:10
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1936 Election and Carlson's Campaign Style
: Carlson given position in Bayfield County by Thomas F. Davlin of State Highway Commission in 1935; fellow workers formed campaign nucleus. Personal campaign style and fluency in Scandinavian tongues. Recalls discussions with Belle Case La Follette and William Proxmire on effectiveness of personal campaigning.
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Tape/Side
1/1
Time
25:10
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Carlson Campaign Anecdotes
: Milking incident persuaded local Croatian leader; piano-playing ability and irrigation advice won over other key individuals. Carlson's piano became campaign trademark.
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Tape/Side
1/1
Time
27:50
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End of Tape 1, Side 1
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Tape/Side
1/2
Time
00:00
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Introduction
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Tape/Side
1/2
Time
00:30
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Voting Blocs in Bayfield County
: County contained Scandinavians, Slovaks, Croatians, often voting in blocs. Anecdote on Carlson's attempts to improve his speech delivery. Differences in “liberalism” of ethnic groups.
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Tape/Side
1/2
Time
05:05
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Carlson Elected to Assembly in 1936
: Carlson resigned job in July 1936. Opponent in Assembly race had WPA patronage; mayor of Bayfield opposed Carlson, as did one of Carlson's petition circulators at last minute. Carlson stressed farm background, arranged photo session at father's experimental plot, campaigned door-to-door.
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Tape/Side
1/2
Time
08:45
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Introduction to the Legislature
: Assisted by Tom Davlin, stayed at Hotel Loraine. Attended bridge games and Thanatopsis Club with Davlin, Harry Sauthoff, William Evjue, and others. Anecdotes about Club participants, mixture of social and political discussion.
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Tape/Side
1/2
Time
15:35
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Thanatopsis Club Discussions on World War II Entry
: Debates between interventionists and isolationists; heated arguments nearly came to blows.
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Tape/Side
1/2
Time
17:40
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Progressives in the Legislature
: Members specialized in particular issues. Progressives forced to build coalitions, especially with some Democrats. Discussion of party discipline; Carlson advocated parliamentary system.
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Tape/Side
1/2
Time
21:30
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Divisions in Progressive Ranks
: Divisions between rural Progressives and Socialists. Charges of ties of CIO with Communist Party and attempts to organize creameries alienated rural Progressives.
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Tape/Side
1/2
Time
23:35
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Inspiration for Legislative Programs
: New Deal drew heavily upon Wisconsin for income tax, Social Security, unemployment relief proposals. State legislators drew upon heritage of La Follette; the Wisconsin Idea. Notes English reform precedents.
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Tape/Side
1/2
Time
26:10
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Sources of Carlson Legislative Proposals
: Ideas for experimental plots, vocational education came from his own experience; did not use the resources of the university much for legislative ideas.
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Tape/Side
1/2
Time
27:45
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End of Tape 1, Side 2
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
00:00
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Introduction
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
00:30
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Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA)
: Designed to create scarcity to raise prices for farm goods, forerunner of modern farm programs. Carlson disagreed with Philip La Follette's opposition to AAA.
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
04:05
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National Recovery Administration (NRA)
: Designed to regulate competition, prices, and wages. Good intentions seen less-well implemented than AAA.
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
05:00
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Works Progress Administration (WPA) and Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)
: “Hoe-leaning” image, but provided jobs and dignity. Civilian Conservation Corps helped the young. Government intervention necessary; helped create purchasing power. Early jobs appropriations, Roosevelt's “Christmas present,” provided quickly, but administration chaotic.
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
08:00
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State Taxation of Chain Stores
: Carlson introduced bill in 1939 based upon Huey Long Louisiana measure. After reading bill, Carlson was no longer enthusiastic; labor groups opposed, bill died in committee. Chain stores defended as price competitive, organized labor feared losses of jobs.
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
10:15
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Banking Regulation
: Regulation handled largely at federal level; mentions introduction of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
10:55
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Public Ownership of Utilities
: Utilities, along with railroads one of traditional progressive “whipping boys.” Attacked utilities' “spite lines,” unwillingness to serve rural areas. Carlson in 1948 refused utility public relations position, currently opposes utility advertising volume.
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
14:10
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State Taxation
: Taxation on ability to pay a central principal of “liberalism,” sales tax cited as regressive. Carlson introduced luxury tax bills. Story relating Philip La Follette's belief in an upper limit to feasible taxation, fear of driving out state industry.
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
17:10
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The 1937 Special Session of the Legislature
: Progressives accused of dictatorial tactics. Response to opposition tying up bills; anecdote from Robert Nixon (Progressive floor leader) on ease of blocking legislation. La Follette aide Thomas Duncan pushed through rules changes, enforced party discipline. Suspension of rules to enforce majority vote, elimination of filibuster.
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
20:45
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Defeat of Governor Philip La Follette in 1938
: Factors included reaction to the special session, accident and investigation involving Thomas Duncan, firing of Glenn Frank as University of Wisconsin president.
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
21:30
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Wisconsin Works Plan
: State unable to provide sufficient funds. Philip La Follette supported the works plan to provide worthwhile jobs instead of “boondoggles.” Plan declined after Philip La Follette defeat.
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
23:05
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Comparison of Assembly and Senate
: Progressives lacked firm majorities in both houses; coalition strategies similar.
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
24:00
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Old Age Pensions
: Carlson wanted a “moderate” program because of concern over finding revenues. Some conservatives supported the Townsend Plan; Progressives cast as “practical reformers.”
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
26:35
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Progressive Reform and Cost Concerns
: Carlson viewed Progressives as “conscience” of the times, felt government activity must be focused nationally. State resources limited, but Progressive activities promoted greater federal government activism.
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Tape/Side
2/1
Time
28:35
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End of Tape 2, Side 1
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Tape/Side
2/2
Time
00:00
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Introduction
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Tape/Side
2/2
Time
00:30
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Carlson Farm Mortgage Moratorium Bill
: 1939 bill intended to extend moratorium failed to achieve passage. Carlson's intent was to provide a mechanism for the ambitious, resident farm owner.
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Tape/Side
2/2
Time
03:20
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Progressive Priorities; The “Little Wagner Act”
: Progressives saw Wisconsin as a pioneer in labor policy, labor organizations wanted a state bill mirroring the Wagner Act. “Little Wagner Act” passed but repealed in 1939; Carlson story of Assembly speech praised by Andrew Biemiller, in defense of the legislation.
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Tape/Side
2/2
Time
05:55
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Carlson's Views on Labor Relations
: Carlson not a specialist in labor law in the Assembly. Supported enforced mediation or “cooling off” in particular occupations. Fears labor too powerful today and hurting American competitive position.
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Tape/Side
2/2
Time
08:05
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Wisconsin Development Authority (WDA) and Wisconsin Agricultural Authority (WAA)
: WDA seen as a quasi-public corporation in the energy field; Tom Davlin a major advocate. WAA patterned after AAA but more emphasis on price increases through enhanced purchasing power. Measures crippled by Philip La Follette 1938 defeat, lack of funding.
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Tape/Side
2/2
Time
13:40
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Carlson's Vocational Education Proposals
: Carlson took “folk school” concept from Scandinavians for adult education. Bayfield lacked a vocational school. Carlson proposal for county vocational education boards opposed by League of Municipalities and county boards association. Later bill, enacted, had multi-county administration. Opponents resisted out of fear for greater local tax burdens.
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Tape/Side
2/2
Time
18:25
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Ragweed Bill Introduced by Carlson
: A “flag-waving” bill rather than serious legislation. Bayfield a haven for ragweed sufferers, but costs prohibited destruction after ragweed's designation as a noxious weed.
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Tape/Side
2/2
Time
19:40
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Carlson Sponsorship of Legislative Athletic Scholarships
: Carlson an avid sportsman, friend of athletic director Harry Stuhldreher. Bill provided remission of out-of-state tuition for athletes. Activity stemmed from Carlson's athletic interests; played basketball at Northland College for two years. Carlson currently promotes curling.
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Tape/Side
2/2
Time
21:30
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Formation of the National Progressives of America (NPA)
: Carlson viewed third party as “ill-timed” step; favored Roosevelt but followed the La Follette lead. Observations of the Stock Pavilion rally of 1938. Criticism of the “circumcised swastika.” Philip La Follette desired recognition for Wisconsin measures beyond the New Deal.
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Tape/Side
2/2
Time
25:10
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Divisions Within the Third Party
: Carlson, other young Progressives more willing to follow. Election difficulties created by Glenn Frank firing, Duncan accident, opposition to a third term for Governor Philip La Follette. Rural Progressives and businessmen feared Socialist tinge in new NPA.
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Tape/Side
2/2
Time
27:10
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End of Tape 2, Side 2
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
00:00
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Introduction
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
00:35
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Factors in Progressive Party Decline
: Among Progressive leaders, strong wills and differing degrees of “liberalism”; interest groups included university community, labor, farmers, young activists. Brief coalition under La Follette buckled over isolationism issue, loyalty to Roosevelt, need to exert national influence. Governor-elect Orland Loomis died in 1942. Subsequent shifts by Progressives to Republican or Democratic party.
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
06:10
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Progressives' Reliance on La Follette Leadership
: Carlson notes reliance on the La Follettes. Philip lost credibility after 1938, later supported Douglas MacArthur. Robert M. La Follette, Jr., altered isolationist position after Pearl Harbor.
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
07:40
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Observations on Progressive Party Campaign Organization
: Progressives lacked strong organization and money. Campaigns conducted by car or train, labor and political magazines, little radio. Financial supporters included highway lobby, small contributors, but overall amounts low. Outspent by Republicans.
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
10:25
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Progressive Party Financial Allocations
: Local campaigns run with little state help; used free meeting halls. Carlson's only office a “plunder box.”
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
12:05
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World War II and Waning of Impulse for Urgent Reform
: Cities employed area rural unemployed during the war; improved individual economic opportunities.
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
14:00
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Campaign of 1942 and Carlson's Defeat
: Carlson assisted Loomis gubernatorial campaign, ran for reelection at Loomis' insistence. Carlson hesitant because of family economic concerns, wish for “new challenges.”
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
15:45
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Reasons for Loomis Win, Carlson Loss
: Carlson not unhappy at loss. Had decided not to run for the State Senate. Lost by 75 votes, attributed to absent servicemen and smaller electorate. Loomis won because of incumbent governor Julius Heil's unpopularity. Loomis made appearances in Bayfield County. Possible administrative appointment for Carlson prevented by Loomis death.
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
19:00
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Impact of Loomis Death on Progressive Fortunes
: Loomis likely to run as Republican in 1944; organized labor already committed to the Democratic party.
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
20:05
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1946 Defeat of Senator Robert La Follette, Jr.
: La Follette stayed in Washington, D.C. Carlson offered to organize Wisconsin 10th District for La Follette if reimbursed. Felt his organizational skills might have made up the margin of defeat to Joseph McCarthy.
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
22:05
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Progressives' Choice of Party Affiliation
: Carlson uncertain but supported Senator La Follette in 1946 Republican primary. Retrospectively believes that Progressives should have entered Democratic party in 1944; delay stayed liberal resurgence for twelve years. McCarthy later drove some out of Republican party.
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
25:15
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Carlson Assessment of Joseph McCarthy
: In early judicial campaigns, Capital Times already opposed to McCarthy. Others saw him as a rising political star; termed by Carlson an “opportunist.”
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
26:30
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Effect on Progressives of La Follette 1946 Defeat
: Robert La Follette left politics, Philip La Follette remained in political decline. Most Progressives turned to Democratic party, which liberalized a previously conservative party.
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Tape/Side
3/1
Time
28:35
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End of Interview Session
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December 13, 1979 Interview Session
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Tape/Side
4/1
Time
00:00
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Introduction
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Tape/Side
4/1
Time
00:30
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Additional Observations on 1938 Election and Glenn Frank Firing
: Carlson a blind Philip La Follette follower; La Follette suffered from dictatorial image. Carlson perceived less impact outside the university community of Frank firing. Relates Philip La Follette observation of the Scandinavian view of the university and politics. 1936 legislative hearings brought out La Follette-Frank disagreements.
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Tape/Side
4/1
Time
06:25
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Observations on Impact of Family Traits on the La Follettes; Personal Characteristics
: Asserts that Belle La Follette had great influence on Robert M. La Follette, Jr.; that Robert M. La Follette, Jr. inherited his father's characteristics and Philip La Follette his mother's. Story about Philip La Follette's extemporaneous speaking ability. Philip a man of fire, but unable to recover politically. Carlson notes power of La Follette name today noting Bronson La Follette.
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Tape/Side
4/1
Time
11:50
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Comparison of Robert and Philip La Follette
: Philip the ambitious brother, hard-driving, seen by some as ruthless. Strong leadership needed given Progressives' precarious legislative strength.
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Tape/Side
4/1
Time
13:45
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Assembly Speakership Election in 1937
: Anecdote of Carlson's refusal to vote against Paul Alfonsi despite Alfonsi's opposition in 1936 election.
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Tape/Side
4/1
Time
17:40
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Assessment of Robert M. La Follette, Jr.
: Used a soft-sell approach, though an effective speaker. More respected for substance, favored by Roosevelt. Carlson recounts meeting with La Follette, discussions of the 1946 loss and reasons for it.
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Tape/Side
4/1
Time
21:15
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Carlson's Business, Personal Philosophy
: Carlson ill from thyroid condition in 1928, determined to accomplish as much as possible. Activities stemmed from hobbies, interests.
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Tape/Side
4/1
Time
24:50
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Carlson's Start in the Radio Business
: Interest stemmed from objection to Superior radio station failing to carry UW football games. After teaching, Carlson took position as “account executive” at Superior station.
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Tape/Side
4/1
Time
26:40
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Curling and Warehouse Interests
: Currently involved in promotion of curling, bought curling stone firm. Search for curling facilities at Truax Field, Madison led to warehouse acquisition.
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Tape/Side
4/1
Time
29:35
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End of Tape 4, Side 1
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Tape/Side
4/2
Time
00:00
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Introduction
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Tape/Side
4/2
Time
00:30
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Continuation of Curling Discussion
: Curling an inexpensive, participatory sport for all ages. Some resistance from bowling interests; hockey interests hesitant to share facilities. Encourages youth programs; sport builds etiquette and responsibility.
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Tape/Side
4/2
Time
06:10
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Begins Career at WIBA, Relationship with William T. Evjue
: Became a friend of Evjue during legislative career. Thanatopsis Club participants often held social and political discussions. Evjue helped Carlson join WIBA in 1948. Besides sales position, Carlson served as driver for Evjue. Story concerning Evjue's initial opposition to John F. Kennedy in 1960.
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Tape/Side
4/2
Time
11:10
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Evaluation of Evjue's Attitudes Toward Labor
: Carlson sensed less support on Evjue's part toward labor organization affecting his own business. Anecdote concerning Evjue labor policies in 1949-50. Opposition to Newspaper Guild.
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Tape/Side
4/2
Time
12:50
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Political Activities from 1946 to 1958
: Less active in politics during years in Superior, although promoted La Follette in 1946. After moving to Madison, assisted in fundraising until 1963, assisted gubernatorial campaign of Gaylord Nelson in 1958 and William Proxmire's U.S. Senate campaign.
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Tape/Side
4/2
Time
15:30
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Friendship with William Proxmire
: Story of 1948 meeting with Evjue and “Rockefeller relative,” Proxmire. Advised Proxmire on Wisconsin political prospects, encouraged “shoe-leather” campaign style. Noted Proxmire's difficult reelection race to U.S. Senate in 1964.
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Tape/Side
4/2
Time
19:25
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Evjue as Political Advisor to Candidates
: Story concerning political trip with Carlson as driver, encouraged Lester Johnson to run (successfully) for Congress despite long odds.
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Tape/Side
4/2
Time
22:10
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Personal Relationship with William Evjue
: Evjue respected Carlson's candor, honesty, used him as a source of opinion. Stories about humorous experiences while driving for Evjue.
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Tape/Side
4/2
Time
25:00
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Evjue and Attempt to Acquire Television Channel Three in Madison
: Evjue's political opponents on the attempt were Senator Joseph McCarthy and old Progressive Ralph Immell. Suggests reasons for Immell's opposition.
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Tape/Side
4/2
Time
28:45
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End of Tape 4, Side 2
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Tape/Side
5/1
Time
00:00
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Introduction
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Tape/Side
5/1
Time
00:30
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Evjue's Opposition to Joseph McCarthy
: Evjue one of earliest opponents, attacked McCarthy before his period of greatest prominence. Editorially opposed McCarthy in 1944 election. Evjue claimed that CIO communists were supporting McCarthy to defeat La Follette in 1946.
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Tape/Side
5/1
Time
03:20
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Evjue Opposition to McCarthy after 1946
: Evjue virtually alone in national opposition until 1950 McCarthy speech at Wheeling, West Virginia. Story of Evjue telephone conversation with Drew Pearson. Pearson, others later challenged McCarthy. McCarthy power and popularity faded after Army hearings.
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Tape/Side
5/1
Time
08:05
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Comments on Evjue's Retirement, Achievements
: Story of Evjue's search for a capable successor; discusses Miles McMillin, whom Evjue respected, but not always agreed with. Power enabled Evjue to help “keep the state clean.”
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Tape/Side
5/1
Time
12:25
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Assessment of William T. Evjue
: Anecdote about his fighting editorials. Carlson comment about flatterers, courters of Evjue's support. Evjue less a pure “liberal” than a “watchdog” of government; defender of “honest politics.”
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Tape/Side
5/1
Time
16:10
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Carlson Meets, Escorts Pollster Samuel Lubell in 1958
: Drove Lubell to Lake Mills, where Lubell interviewed prospective voters, forecasted 1958 statewide winners.
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Tape/Side
5/1
Time
19:50
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Carlson Describes “Six Year” Political Cycle in Wisconsin Politics
: From 1958 to 1970, six year cycles of Republican and Democratic leadership. 1970 gubernatorial election crucial because four year term began.
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Tape/Side
5/1
Time
20:40
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Assessment of Gaylord Nelson
: As a campaigner, less a hand-shaker than Proxmire. Parents Progressives from Clear Lake; Nelson's mother more active politically than father.
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Tape/Side
5/1
Time
21:25
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Carlson Elected as Dane County Clerk of Courts in 1968
: Turned down 1968 race, name remained prominent in Capital Times columns, travelogues. Assisted in bridging party divisions in Dane County; the “travelling progressive headquarters” started at La Follette home. As clerk, Carlson installed computers for Family Support Division, initiated computerization for Criminal and Traffic divisions.
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Tape/Side
5/1
Time
27:05
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Carlson's Current Political Interests
: Reads New Republic, studies “both sides,” describes self as “pathological liberal.” Sees himself more liberal than before; as an example Carlson critical of political power of oil industry.
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Tape/Side
5/1
Time
28:20
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End of Tape 5, Side 1
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Tape/Side
6/1
Time
00:00
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Introduction
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Tape/Side
6/1
Time
00:30
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Current Business Interests
: Acquired Truax Field warehouses, land; Carlson a minority stockholder in warehouse corporation. Marketer for Icemaster curling products and markers for athletic fields, highways, and other uses.
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Tape/Side
6/1
Time
04:10
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Discussion of Children: Family Values
: Son a Washington, D.C. lawyer, former government official and Carter campaign consultant, now in private practice. Oldest daughter involved in primate research. Asserts that teaching career made Carlson a better parent. Emphasized college education for his children, “make it before you're forty.”
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Tape/Side
6/1
Time
06:50
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Carlson Defines Progressivism
: Grounded in insurgent Republicanism. Central feature is “liberalism”; inborn influences of parental poverty and hard work, spirit for the “underdog.”
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Tape/Side
6/1
Time
10:00
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Discussion of the Role of Government Today
: To help the ambitious person. Criticizes Small Business Administration for neglecting the small businessman, the “man with an idea.” Praises his wife's business sense, describes current tobacco sprayer venture. Keeps busy to “keep young.”
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Tape/Side
6/1
Time
13:10
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Problems of Government Today
: Lack of party unity, problem of one-issue politics. Called for parliamentary system and greater adherence to platform principles.
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Tape/Side
6/1
Time
14:10
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Carlson's Assessment of President Carter
: Gained stature from Iranian crisis, comparable to Truman's political resurgence in 1948. Assesses potential Republican opponents in 1980.
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Tape/Side
6/1
Time
16:20
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Comments on Middle Class, White Collar America
: White collar workers seen as vulnerable, responding with organization, unions as never before. Attitudes toward government role have changed; business opposition to planned economy has lessened. Capitalism a “sick system,” mentions growth of taxation.
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Tape/Side
6/1
Time
19:20
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Comparison of Current Issues to Progressive Concerns
: Current problems of tax loopholes, money in politics, influence of “vested” interests. Independence of the modern liberal being compromised; costs of running for office force submission. Advocates free candidate access to airwaves, public control of energy production. Party labels less meaningful today; divided government.
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Tape/Side
6/1
Time
23:55
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Discussion of Criteria for Being Able Public Servant
: Individual integrity foremost, followed by “liberal” philosophy. Descriptions given by Carlson of examples of integrity among contemporary politicians and his public heroes. Expresses admiration for such Republicans as Earl Warren and Wilbur Renk.
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Tape/Side
6/1
Time
26:20
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End of Interview
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Appendix: Index for Interview with Laurie Carlson
- Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA)
- 2/1, 00:30; 2/2, 08:05
- Alfonsi, Paul
- 4/1, 13:45
- Athletics
- 2/2, 19:40; 4/1, 24:50, 26:40
- Athletic scholarships
- 2/2, 19:40
- Banking regulation
- 2/1, 10:15
- Bayfield
- 1/1, 00:10, 02:25, 14:45, 19:15, 21:10, 25:10; 1/2, 00:30, 05:05; 2/2, 13:40, 18:25; 3/1, 15:45
- Biemiller, Andrew
- 2/2, 03:20
- Campaigning
- 3/1, 07:40, 10:25; 5/1, 21:25; 6/1, 19:20
- Capital Times (Madison)
- 3/1, 25:15; 4/2, 11:10; 5/1, 21:25
- Carlson, Laurie: Business activities
- 4/1, 21:15, 24:50, 26:40; 4/2, 00:30; 6/1, 00:30, 10:00
- Carlson, Laurie: Family
- 6/1, 04:10
- Carlson, Laurie: Father of
- 1/1, 00:10, 02:25
- Carter, Jimmy
- 6/1, 04:10, 14:10
- Chain stores
- 2/1, 08:00
- Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)
- 2/1, 05:00
- Clerk of Courts, Dane County
- 5/1, 21:25
- Communist Party
- 1/1, 05:20; 1/2, 21:30
- Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO)
- 1/2, 21:30
- Creameries
- 1/2, 21:30
- Croatians
- 1/1, 25:10; 1/2, 00:30
- Curling
- 2/2, 19:40; 4/1, 26:40; 4/2, 00:30; 6/1, 00:30
- Davlin, Thomas F.
- 1/1, 21:10; 1/2, 08:45; 2/2, 08:05
- Democratic Party
- 1/1, 11:30; 1/2, 17:40; 3/1, 00:35, 19:00, 22:05, 26:30; 4/2, 06:10, 12:50, 15:30; 5/1, 19:50, 21:25
- Dow, Charles (Col.)
- 1/2, 08:45
- Duncan, Thomas
- 2/1, 17:10, 20:45; 2/2, 25:10
- Elections
- 1/1, 11:30, 14:45, 19:15, 21:10, 25:10; 1/2, 00:30, 05:05; 2/1, 20:45; 3/1, 14:00, 15:45, 19:00, 20:05; 4/1, 00:30; 4/2, 12:50, 15:30, 19:25; 5/1, 00:30, 16:10, 19:50, 20:40, 21:25
- Evjue, William
- 1/2, 08:45; 4/2, 06:10, 11:10, 15:30, 19:25, 22:10, 25:00; 5/1, 00:30, 03:20, 08:05, 12:25
- Farming
- 1/1, 00:10, 25:10; 1/2, 05:05, 26:10; 2/1, 00:30; 2/2, 00:30, 08:05; 3/1, 00:35
- Farm mortgage moratorium
- 2/2, 00:30
- Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
- 2/1, 10:15
- Frank, Glenn
- 2/1, 20:45; 2/2, 25:10; 4/1, 00:30
- Heil, Julius
- 3/1, 15:45
- Hoover, Herbert
- 1/1, 11:30
- Hotel Loraine
- 1/2, 08:45
- Immell, Ralph
- 4/2, 25:00
- Interventionism
- 1/2, 15:35; 3/1, 00:35, 06:10
- Johnson, Lester
- 4/2, 19:25
- Kennedy, John F.
- 4/2, 06:10
- Labor, organized
- 1/1, 00:10; 2/1, 08:00; 2/2, 03:20, 05:50; 3/1, 00:35; 4/2, 11:10; 6/1, 16:20
- La Follette, Belle Case
- 1/1, 21:10; 4/1, 06:25
- La Follette, Bronson
- 4/1, 06:25
- La Follette, Philip F.
- 1/1, 11:30, 19:15; 2/1, 00:30, 14:10, 17:10, 20:45, 21:30; 2/2, 08:05, 21:30, 25:10; 3/1, 00:35, 06:10, 26:30; 4/1, 00:30, 06:25, 11:50
- La Follette, Robert M., Jr.
- 1/1, 11:30, 19:15; 3/1, 06:10, 20:05, 22:05, 26:30; 4/1, 06:25, 17:40; 4/2, 12:50; 5/1, 00:30
- La Follette, Robert M., Sr.
- 1/1, 00:10, 02:25; 1/2, 23:35
- La Follette Weekly Magazine
- 1/1, 00:10
- Lake steamers
- 1/1, 00:10
- League of Municipalities
- 2/2, 13:40
- Liberalism
- 3/1, 00:35; 5/1, 27:05; 6/1, 23:55
- “Little Wagner Act”
- 2/2, 03:20
- Logging
- 1/1, 00:10
- Long, Huey
- 2/1, 08:00
- Longshoremen's union
- 1/1, 00:10
- Loomis, Orland
- 3/1, 00:35, 14:00, 15:45, 19:00
- Lubell, Samuel
- 5/1, 16:10
- MacArthur, Douglas
- 3/1, 06:10
- McCarthy, Joseph R.
- 3/1, 20:05, 22:05, 25:15; 4/2, 25:00; 5/1, 00:30, 03:20
- McMillin, Miles
- 5/1, 08:05
- National Progressives of America (NPA)
- 2/2, 21:30; 3/1, 00:35, 25:10; 4/1, 00:30
- National Recovery Administration (NRA)
- 2/1, 04:05
- Nelson, Gaylord
- 4:2, 12:50; 5:1, 20:40
- New Deal
- 1/2, 23:35; 2/1, 00:30, 04:05, 05:00, 10:15; 2/2, 03:20, 21:30
- Newspaper Guild
- 4/2, 11:10
- Nixon, Robert
- 2/1, 17:10
- Northland College
- 2/2, 19:40
- Oil industry
- 5/1, 27:05; 6/1, 19:20
- Old age pensions
- 2/1, 24:00
- Pearson, Drew
- 5/1, 03:20
- Peavey; H. E., son of
- 1/1, 02:25
- Progressive Party
- 1/1, 05:20-25:10; 1/2, 00:30-08:45, 17:40-23:35; 2/1, 08:00, 10:55-26:35; 2/2, 00:30-03:20, 08:05, 13:40, 21:30-25:10; 3/1, 00:35-22:05, 26:30; 4/1, 00:30-11:50, 17:40; 4/2, 12:50; 5/1, 20:40; 6/1, 06:50, 19:20
- Proxmire, William
- 1/1, 21:10; 4/2, 12:50, 15:30
- Radio
- 4/1, 24:50
- Radio: WIBA
- 4/2, 06:10, 11:10, 22:00, 25:00; 5/1, 08:05
- Ragweed
- 2/2, 18:25
- Renk, William
- 6/1, 23:55
- Republican Party
- 1/1, 11:30; 3/1, 00:35, 19:00, 20:05, 22:05, 25:15; 5/1, 19:50; 6/1, 23:55
- Roosevelt, Franklin D.
- 1/1, 11:30; 2/1, 05:00; 2/2, 21:30; 3/1, 00:35; 4/1, 17:40
- Sauthoff, Harry
- 1/2, 08:45
- Scandinavians
- 1/1, 21:10, 25:10; 1/2, 00:30; 2/2, 13:40; 4/1, 00:30
- Slovaks
- 1/2, 00:30
- Small Business Administration
- 6/1, 10:00
- Socialist Party
- 1/1, 05:20; 1/2, 21:30; 2/2, 25:10
- State Highway Commission
- 1/1, 21:10
- Stock Pavilion rally
- 2/2, 21:30
- Stuhldreher, Harry
- 2/2, 19:40
- Superior
- 4/1, 24:50; 4/2, 12:50
- Taxation
- 2/1, 08:00, 14:10; 6/1, 16:20, 19:20
- Television
- 4/2, 25:00
- Thanatopsis Club
- 1/2, 08:45, 15:35; 4/2, 06:10
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- 1/1, 05:20; 1/2, 26:10; 2/1, 20:45; 3/1, 00:35; 4/1, 00:30
- Utilities, Regulation and ownership
- 2/1, 10:55
- Vocational education
- 1/1, 05:20; 1/2, 26:10; 2/2, 10:25
- Wagner Act
- 2/2, 03:20
- Warehousing
- 4/1, 26:40; 6/1, 00:30
- Warren, Earl
- 6/1, 23:55
- Wisconsin Agricultural Authority
- 2/2, 08:05
- Wisconsin Development Authority
- 2/2, 08:05
- Wisconsin Idea
- 1/2, 23:35
- Wisconsin Legislature
- 1/1, 05:20; 1/2, 08:45, 17:40, 23:35, 25:10; 2/1, 17:00, 23:05; 2/2, 00:30, 03:20, 08:05, 13:40, 19:40; 4/1, 13:45; 6/1, 23:55
- Wisconsin Legislature: Assembly
- 1/1, 14:45, 21:10; 1/2, 05:05, 08:45; 2/1, 23:05
- Wisconsin Legislature: 1937 Special Session
- 2/1, 17:10
- Wisconsin Works Plan
- 2/1, 21:30
- Works Progress Administration (WPA)
- 1/2, 05:05; 2/1, 05:00
- World War II
- 1/2, 15:35; 3/1, 06:10, 12:05
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